Connect. Value. Include. Challenge.
I learned these four words at a Willow Creek children's conference lots of years ago. The conference theme was about leading volunteers (hope that makes sense now why I loved it!) Evidence of why I remember them several years later is because they are effective principles for leading people...anywhere! In church, in business, in families, in groups, in relationships - they really work!
Connect: people need space to get to know one another. Leave room on your agendas and schedules for time to hang out.
Value: people want to know they matter. Invest time. Pay attention. Listen. Tell them what you like about them. Tell them what you love about them.
Include: people want to know what is happening. Share what changes are being considered or what problems need solutions. Invite their thoughts and ideas. Celebrate success together.
Challenge: people need to know they have potential and trust. Encourage them to try. Invite them to join you. Cheerlead as they lead. Take a vacation and tell them to proceed wihout you. Ask someone else to lead even while you're present. Learn from them.
We have great volunteer and staff leaders at GCC! Identifying how they do what they do helps me lead others. It's a privilege to serve!
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